If you enjoy real ale but feel that drinking London Pride by the seaside is a bit wrong or you’re tired of Doom Bar being the only option at the pumps, then you already understand why a government review looking at how to put more local, independent beers on pub bars is exciting news. It is one of the initiatives expected to be covered in today’s Budget in which Rachel Reeves has announced she is cutting draught beer duty to take a penny off the cost of a pint.
So, why is a review important? SIBA, the body that represents many of the UK’s small independent breweries, has argued that consumer demand for “locally produced independent draught beer” isn’t being satisfied because “the supply is dominated by a few globally owned breweries”.
Andy Slee, SIBA’s chief executive, said: “Being able to reach people who want local beer is the number one issue facing our independent breweries who often cannot sell to the local pubs in their community.”
As it stands, many pubs are still in the hands of a small number of pub companies who may charge below market rent to licensees, but only in exchange for them buying beer from, or via, them. The range of beers a pub can offer is essentially a hostage of tenancy agreements. Mr Slee believes that “a government-led review into these issues is an important first step to explore the right solution for the sector”. SIBA is also hopeful that the Chancellor will maintain the business rate relief to give the sector a further boost.
So, what might drinkers be able to look forward to under this new initiative? Here are some of the best beers to look for on the bar.